The Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC, has stated its resolve to review aspects of the Universal Basic Education Act of 2004 that are hindering the smooth operation of the programme. The Act was enacted during the administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2004.
This was disclosed by the UBEC Executive Secretary, Dr. Hamid Bobboyi on Friday in Lagos, during the opening of a two-day retreat for the Senate Committee on Education (Basic and Secondary) with the theme, ‘Basic Education Implementation in Nigeria: Issues, Challenges and Way Forward.
Speaking at the event, Bobboyi, explained that due to societal developments and changes since 2004, the Act has become overdue for review.
He said, “We will share with the Committee aspects of the Universal Basic Education Act, 2004 and Other Related Matter. Which in our view, constitutes an encumbrance to the smooth implementation of the UBE programme.
“Having been enacted in 2004, that is, 20 years ago, and given the developments and changes that have taken place in the society since then, it is our view that the Act is overdue for review.”
Bobboyi, therefore, stressed the need for the education system to address the country’s challenges.
He said, “Our education should respond to the needs and aspirations of our country. And there is no better way to do this than being abreast of local and global developments.”
The event was chaired by the former Governor of Ogun State and serving Senator for Ogun East, Gbenga Daniel.
Speaking at the event, Daniel called for increased funding, tech integration, community engagement, and resource allocation for basic education.
He said, “I believe UBEC has thought deeply before organizing this. There is a need to implement technology integration, community engagement, and sensitization for UBE programme. This is to enable it to gain more support from international organizations and NGOs.
“We need to begin decentralizing by giving autonomy to Local Government Areas. This is because the State Government cannot reach all primary schools. Additionally, curriculum reforms, infrastructure improvements, teacher training, recruitment, and retention are essential,” he said.
The Chairman, Senate Committee on Education (Basic and Secondary), Sen. Lawal Usman, praised the conveners of the event. He added that equal and adequate education was crucial for development.
According to him, it was the responsibility of every government to provide free education. He, however, urged parents and guardians to ensure that every child received an education.
The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Bimbo Salu-Hudeyin.
Addressing the gathering, he said, “As we embark on these deliberations, let us be guided by our shared vision of a Nigeria. where every child has access to quality basic education. This retreat is a wake up call to action. More positive and forward-looking action.
“We must engage in open dialogues, share best practices, and develop actionable plans that will drive significant improvements in our education system.”
source: PUNCH
Follow us for more news on our WhatsApp News Channels @
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaC505jB4hdZ5Yx9g82U
